Tim MacMahon foreshadows free agency nightmare for the Jazz

When the Utah Jazz acquired Jaren Jackson Jr., many were excited primarily to see what the pairing of him and Walker Kessler will look like when Utah returns to full strength. The only hangup is that such pairing won't come to fruition until Kessler signs his name on the dotted line this summer.

It seems like a given that the Jazz will re-sign their blossoming center this offseason. However, ESPN's TIm MacMahon revealed on "The Hoop Collective" that it won't be so simple between the two sides.

"The Walker Kessler restricted free agency is not going be a fun and cozy experience.," MacMahon said. "...(The Jazz) have a number in mind for Walker Kessler, and Walker and his representation have a much larger number in mind... It'll be very interesting to see if Walker can get the kind of offer that's going to put the Jazz to the test.

"...The Jazz very firmly will tell you that Walker Kessler is part of their core moving forward. I'm just going to warn that we need to see how the summer plays out until we're certain of that."

The Jazz have the inside track with Kessler because his free agency is restricted. However, that doesn't mean there won't be a team out there who couldn't make Utah sweat if they give Kessler the money he wants.

After trading for JJJ, it's obviously in the Jazz's best interest to pair him with Kessler. However, teaming this duo up will all depend on if the sides can agree on whether the price is right.

For what it's worth, it appears both players are ecstatic to play with one another should they get the chance.

Kessler's suitors are dropping like flies though

Kessler is absolutely entitled to play the long game with the Jazz. He might not necessarily be a star, but he's a very impactful player who's not easy to replace. Unfortunately, he lost a lot of leverage, and that's including since MacMahon revealed his sentiment three days ago.

It's been around this exact time that Kessler suitors have taken themselves out of the running. Washington was rumored to be a Kessler suitor, but trading for Anthony Davis neutralizes them as a threat. Indiana also wanted Kessler, but when the Jazz made it clear they weren't dealing him for picks, they got Ivica Zubac, eliminating them from the race.

Those were two cap space teams that previously needed bigs, but no longer do. The Lakers desperately need a big man, and they'll have cap space, but they will have their hands tied with Austin Reaves. Not to mention, they may get turned off by the prospect of the Jazz being able to match any offer sheet he gets.

Kessler may hold out to see if he can get the richest deal possible, but the Jazz have sent a clear message from the jump.

Bring it on.